SOCIAL

It’s been a little while since I’ve had the opportunity to write. To be frank, life has been pretty darn busy. So busy, that is wasn’t making me feel good. It was getting to the point where I felt that time was flittering away by the seconds. I was waking up, working, coming home, going to bed, waking up again and repeating those steps over and over again. Guess what? When you do that, you’re not going to be happy! I have always lived by my mantra, what I base my whole blog off – living a little and I simply wasn’t doing it.

So what did I do? Well took drastic measures of course! Okay, that sounds quite dramatic, but I did take myself off the metaphorical hamster wheel. After great counsel from those close to me, it was decided that my health, relationships and general well-being were far too important. I worked out the pros and cons staying in my position and after completing the exercise realised that the cons were seriously outweighing the pros. Not good. I also thought back to how I was feeling January 2016. I promised myself that I would write more, photograph more, exercise more and enjoy life more. And here I was mid year feeling completely and utterly exhausted.

I sat down, took a breather and worked through what I actually wanted. Flexibility, space, time to finish my studies, but still be able to work in a creative and dynamic environment. I wanted some sort of capacity to visit my family, be with my partner more, and gain time to to see my friends. This worst feeling in the world is knowing that your relationships are getting neglected.

So where am I now? Well back finishing my studies – via correspondence, which gives me plenty of flexibility to fit my studies in and around my life. I have a new job, which is beyond exciting, I am finishing the renovations of my first home and slowly planning for a big trip in early 2017.

Diner en Blanc is one of the most spectacular events I have ever attended. Ever year it blows me away. Visually, it’s unbelievable and logistically, unbelievable too.

To set the scene for you – thousands of people (all dressed in white) get together in a secret location (only revealed the day of the event), set up their own table and chairs, bring their own food and manage to sit in a grid like system. There are very strict rules of what we can and cannot bring – paper napkins are most certainly a no-no and everything must be white. We drape our own tables with fresh flowers, fairy lights or any creative way in which we see fit, drink wine and enjoy each others company. To start our dinner, we wave our linen napkins in the air and to cease our dinner, light giant sparklers. It’s elegant, chic and visually looks stunning.

This year was incredible. Despite heightened security and a bit of a wait to get into the venue, setting up our tables on the Opera House Steps was very special. Surrounded by the beauty of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and a cruise ship that had docked temporarily, it was one heck of a backdrop.

We dined on a cheese and salami plate, with fresh figs, dips and olives, followed by a gourmet quiche, handmade sausage rolls with salad and finished with a beautiful chocolate cake with caramel sauce. The table was designed and put together by my extraordinarily talented friend Gabrielle, the brains behind Style by Soiree.

What I love the most about Diner en Blanc, aside from being in friends company, is how happy everyone is – everywhere you look people are laughing, smiling and generally just having a wonderful time. I feel very special to be part of something so incredible. Until next year Diner en Blanc! Santé!

How wonderful are weddings? Aside from the suits, dresses, delicious wedding cake and fabulous food, I love the atmosphere – there is always so much positivity in the air. It’s so lovely to see friends, family and loved ones all come together with one cause of celebration in mind.

I don’t often post personal events on my blog, but this was so worth sharing. Part of my travels earlier in the year was to celebrate my partners’ cousin, Emily and her marriage to her now husband Russ. They were married at St Peters, with her reception at the very grand Dumbleton Hall. Em looked absolutely phenomenal and everything about the day was perfect. From the horse drawn carriage, to the Worcestershire countryside setting, the beautiful wedding cake to the very emotional speeches.

It was a very special day and judging by the photos you can certainly see why.. Enjoy! X

You can learn a lot from someones driving habits, can’t you? Are you a control freak? Do you suffer from road rage? A speed demon? Or are you more comfortable being driven? Did you know that 73% of Australian men prefer to be in the driving seat, with women just at 58%.

So imagine having your first date behind the wheel. Certainly a strange place to consider meeting someone for the first time, but that is exactly what Aussie car manufacturer Holden did. Parallel to the launch of their brand new Holden Cruze, the team held a very interesting social experiment based on the premise, “you don’t know someone until you drive with them”.

Held last Tuesday evening at The Bourbon, in iconic Potts Point, guests were treated to the unveiling of the brand new Holden Cruze, and witnessed Holden’s social experiment unfold. A number of singles were paired by Holden to attend blind dates in the new-look Cruze. Not necessarily, the most obvious or the first date choice by most I would imagine, the couples had set driving tasks to complete whilst navigating themselves to an end destination, all whilst trying to get to know each other AND handling the pressure of being put in a car together! Oh and I forgot to mention that the couples were filmed for the judges and guests to see!

Whilst the dates were shown on the big screen, each couple was scored based on their initial impression of each other, interaction throughout the blind date, overall chemistry and body language. Judged by relationships expert and psychologist, Dr. Peter Jonason and former Miss Universe Australia, Laura Dundovic, they had the task to decide which pair showed the most promise as a couple. In my eyes (and I think the judges too) there was a couple that really deserved to win and that was Loretta Jacob and Aashish Chopra. Aside from being completely adorable, they really did seem to have a lot of chemistry, even sharing a kiss at the event!

The all new Holden Cruze in all her glory. The launch was held at The Bourbon in iconic Potts Point. Copyright La Tessa Photography.

Myself and Pete. Copyright La Tessa Photography.

Parallel to the launch, Holden held a social experiment, focused around the premise that “you don’t know someone until you drive with them!”. Copyright La Tessa Photography.

You need to decide for yourself, which couple do you think deserved the prize? Watch all the dates here. But the victors on the night, Aashish and Loretta scored themselves a luxury weekend away in the Hunter Valley and the opportunity to drive the Cruze for 3 months!

So, you might still be asking, why exactly did Holden do this social experiment? Sean Poppitt, the director of communications of Holden summed it up perfectly, “the social experiment was a unique way of communicating Cruze’s strengths as a connected, feature packed car that would take away some of the tension points that traditionally play up between couples on the road.”

As for the car, it’s packed full of features and looks beautiful and you’ve got to see it for yourself. Now if you’re planning to purchase a car, certainly take the new Cruze for a test drive*.

Show the Holden Cruze some love!

*Love cannot be guaranteed, however driving a Cruze around may be able to help, after it is now a perfectly acceptable way of conducting a first date!

One of my favourite places in Australia without a shadow of a doubt is NSW’s Hunter Valley. Aside from having top-notch wineries every where you turn and beautiful accommodation options, it actually is a foodie’s delight. Boasting some of Australia’s award winning restaurants and fine dining eateries, the Hunter will tempt you with a range of dining options.

This weekend, I experienced no different at the revamped and renamed ‘Circa 1876’ (née Roberts Circa 1876). Matt and Karlie Cowley, CEOs of both Peppers Covent and Circa 1876 hosted a spectacular garden party to christen the newly named venue. It was a perfect opportunity to hear from Matt all about the renaming and a chance to hear from George Francisco, the internationally acclaimed executive chef about the future plans of the restaurant.

So why the new name? As Matt put it in his speech, the removal of Roberts is not meant to be rude in anyway towards the previous executive chef, Robert Molines. It has been eight years since Robert was in the kitchen and simply, it was time for a change.

Just a stroll from the award winning Peppers Convent, Circa 1876 sits on the Peppers Tree Estate.

We were entertained with the stunning sounds of a string duo.

Champagne Taittinger looked after all their guests.

Karlie Cowley has such an eye for detail. I loved the hand written menu-tags that were all over the restaurant.

Fresh florals were dotted all over the restaurant, adding to that garden party vibe.

We were blessed with beautiful weather, as the sun set.

We were looked after by stunning staff.

What’s a garden party without a little champagne shower?

We feasted on fresh seafood, from a beautiful seafood buffet bar.

And were given the opportunity to taste George’s menu.

I was blown away by the presentation of all the food.

There was so much colour and richness to everything.

Thankyou to Wish Clothing & Socialight for my beautiful outfit.

Notoriously known for their fresh produce, Circa 1876 use only seasonal produce grown from the organic kitchen garden on site, as well as sourcing only the finest local produce. What I took from the menu was not only the freshness and taste, but beautiful presentation.

Many congratulations to both Matt and Karlie Cowley and George Francisco for hosting such a stunning event. Everything from the food, to the drink menu and service was spot on and from what I could see, guests were always smiling. A wonderful evening to mark the name a of a new era at ‘Circa 1876’.

I can’t believe that we are fast approaching February, is it me or has January just flown by? There are so many things about January that I love. It’s still summer and beautifully warm, people are slowly getting back into the swing of things and it seems that everyone is travelling, having weekends away and just enjoying the moment. We had News Years Eve, New Years Day and Australia Day weekend is just around the corner.

Modelling Camera Chick’s “Mary Lou” Bag. Copyright Natalie Winter.

I have loved hearing about everyones new years resolutions too – something I’ve promised myself is to start capturing more key moments in my life and not just on my smart phone, with my camera and actively get them printed. There is something so wonderful about photography and looking back on all the memories I have created with friends, family and love ones.

I am promising you, my readers, more photography based posts. Places I visit, things I love and fashion that inspires me, and I am asking you to do the same. Capture as many moments as possible. Create albums, collages and fill photo frames with memories. There is something so much more exciting when a photograph is tangible.

To get you photographically inspired, I wanted to share with you a photo and video shoot I did last year with a very special business called Camera Chick. It has been one of my favourite collaborations and was super happy with how everything turned out. Owned by photographer, Natalie Winter, Camera Chick provides unique and beautiful bags that can safely store all your photographic and camera gear.

Our shoot took place in the beautiful Southern Highlands and we were blessed with stunning weather. After filming the videos for Camera Chick (which you can view here), Natalie and I had a wonderful time driving around the area scouting perfect shooting spots. My favourite location? The famous Lolly Swagman Lolly Shop, which is heaven on earth if you have a sweet tooth! I thought it would be nice to share with you some of my favourite snaps from our photo shoot.

The “Charlie” Bag.

The “Taylor” Bag in Look-a-Like Leather. Copyright Natalie Winter.

The “Jack” Bag. Copyright Natalie Winter.

The “Molly” Bag. Copyright Natalie Winter.

The “Taylor” Bag in Look-a-Like Leather. Copyright Natalie Winter.

The “Taylor” Bag in Canvas.

What I loved the most about the photo shoot was the fact that there was no specific creative direction – it was super relaxed and all the photos candid. And the result? Perfect! It’s this particular photo shoot that has inspired me to be a little bit more proactive with the camera, and I hope it has for you too. Don’t be shy, grab that camera and start snapping away! You’ll never know what you’ll capture.

It was certainly a night to remember and one to never forget. A night of glitz, glamour and sophistication, The Annual Shine & Dine 2014. Hundreds of beautiful guests, VIPs and celebrities came together in support of one cause, Make-A-Wish. An incredible organisation that provides children who are facing life-threatening illnesses, an opportunity to have their wishes come true.

Doltone House was transformed into a black, gold and sparkly vision, with every table dotted with extravagant candelabras. It was just beautiful. We had spectacular live performances from Casey Burgess and Mis Joelle, a live and silent auction, a candle lighting ceremony and balloon popping. However the most beautiful moment of the evening (and what ultimately the whole night is about) was witnessing six-year-old Brianna Younie, receive her wish from wedding dress guru, Henry Roth, a stay in the Gold Coast to have fun at the theme parks. It was incredibly emotional, but also uplifting to be able to see exactly where the funds raised goes to. Brianna, I hope you have a spectacular time! As the red carpet interviewer, it was wonderful to meet and chat with major sponsors, celebrities and ambassadors who all positively impacted the event in one way or another. Many thanks to Field of Art Productions who put together all the videos. You can check out my interviews below with footie legend Beau Ryan who talks about his involvement with the Shine & Dine and returning guest – singer and song writer, Casey Burgess. I also got to catch up with celebrity chef and ambassador Massimo Mele. I also got to boogie on down with INXS rock legend Jon Fariss who tells me all about the incredible guitar that was donated for the night.

I had a lot of enquiries after the event about my dress. Perfect for the occasion, it curtainly shined. My gown was provided by the incredible Indian-Australian based designer, WANNI. I was dressed in a custom couture gown from Wanni’s ‘A Whimsical Evening’ S/S ’14/’14 Collection. The stunning neck piece, is painstakingly hand sewn over five long days. I also had a hand-made Indian head piece in the back of my hair. Many thanks to Lattouf Hair and Napoleon Perdis for my beautiful hair and makeup.

Lights, camera and action! Thankyou so much to MM Photos for the picture.

The brains behind the Shine & Dine Sharon Melhem, myself and my gorgeous boyfriend Pete! Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

My gorgeous date, Pete and I. Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

It was such a pleasure chatting to Henry Roth.. Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

Discussing all things fashion with the stunning Fatai! Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

Catching up with returning guest Casey Burgess.. Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

Celebrity chef Massimo Mele and I having a chat about all things ‘chefy’. Many thanks to Kelly Hobson for the photo.

I want to also take the opportunity to congratulate Sharon Melhem from Kouture Productions, the brains and founder of the Shine and Dine on such a spectacular evening. Two months out from the event and still people are talking about it! I want to extend my congratulations and thanks to all the sponsors, donators and guests who made the night simply perfect. I cannot wait to see what the Shine and Dine 2015 has in store and I hope to see you all there next year!

Is everyone starting to feel the winter chill? I must admit, this weekend certainly confirmed that winter is here! Temperatures are dropping, the sun is setting a lot earlier and its so tempting to want to stay indoors and hibernate until spring. However, winter is the perfect time to venture out! Crazy I know, but I can promise you, winter is where you can brave the cold, head out and try some new venues.

I recently attended the winter menu launch at the very quaint, yet very cool, The Cottage Bar & Kitchen in Balmain. If you have never been and not sure what to look out for, you’ll be greeted by quite literally, a cottage slap bang in the middle of Darling St. Fairy lights are dotted across the alfresco area out the front and once you enter the bar & kitchen, you’ll instantly feel warm, cosy and a little fuzzy inside. Cute vintage style knick-knacks and art works are placed all throughout the cottage, giving it a homely and inviting feel.

So what about the food and drink? Well, we were treated to a brand new winter menu, designed by head chef Ellen Young. We feasted on some delicious dishes, including roasted cauliflower with pulled lamb shoulder, raisins and vinaigrette; maple & cider beef brisket with celeriac crisp and horseradish cream; arancini of tomato, smoked mozzarella and parmesan; mushrooms stuffed with barley, dried fruit, herbs and chevre; and Yellowfin tuna tartare with beetroot relish, apple, pickled fennel, dukkah. I was completely blown away by the never ending supply of freshly shucked oysters served at the oyster bar, which were the perfect starter. To finish, we nibbled on on an extensive selection of European cheeses.

Offering an extensive cocktail menu, The Cottage Bar & Kitchen is even the perfect venue to catch up with friends for a few drinks. We were presented with some brand new cocktails created by co-owner Osman Misirlizade, all of which used fresh ingredients and have impeccable presentation – there was the Speyside Sour which consists of Glenfiddich 12 year and ginger liqueur lengthened with lemon juice, honey water and finished with orange bitters; The Slow Cuban which is a twist on the mojito, including Plymouth sloe gin shaken with pressed mint and lime and charged with soda; and the Lemon & Basil Gimlet consisting of Citron vodka & limoncello shaken with fresh basil, lemon and lime. It certainly was a treat for the taste buds!

The Cottage Bar & Kitchen not only offers delicious food and cocktails, but is the perfect venue to explore during the winter months – whether you are on a romantic date for two or holding a big birthday bash with friends and family, you’ll certainly be catered for. It offers such a warm and friendly ambiance. After your first visit, you’ll see why it is such a hit amongst Balmain’s trendiest.

So next time you’re ‘umming’ and ‘aahing’ about whether or not to venture out, put on a brave face (and your best winter coat) and live a little. summer will be here in no time, so we might as well make the best of it!

One of the biggest perils of being a blogger is lugging around an SLR camera – I always want to provide my readers with top quality images, so it’s a necessity to have my Nikon on me at all times. However, it can be extremely invading, irritating to carry and near-on impossible to take subtle photographs without people thinking your a social photographer. Small digital cameras are fabulous, but there is an essence of quality when you use a SLR, and the photographic finish always looks so professional.

This week I was introduced to the solution at the very trendy So Cal, in Neutral Bay. Surrounded by fellow lifestyle and food bloggers, we were presented with the Sony QX. Whilst dining on a delicious Southern Cali menu, we got to have a play with our very own Sony QX. So Cal was the perfect place to snap away too. We were out in the courtyard, which was cosy, but still fun. With gorgeous wall detailing, coloured lights and pot plants, it really gave off a lovely vibe. We were lucky enough to witness one of the chefs doing a live demo, which was a wonderful photo opportunity. On inspection, the QX looks like a lens that you would attach to a camera, but actually is a mini camera in itself. I was amazed – the best thing about it, is that is can be operated completely through your smartphone to capture high quality, clear and beautiful images. All the pictures below were captured on my QX100.

So, for all my photography-savvy readers, you need to know the specs. The Cyber-shot DSC-QX100 features a large 1.0-type Exmor R CMOS sensor with 20.2 effective megapixels. You can enjoy sumptuous, ultra-low noise images – even indoors or at dusk when many cameras and camera phones seem to struggle. It’s simple to frame shots and tweak camera settings like aperture control and exposure compensation as well as photo/video record mode on your smartphone’s big touchscreen. You now get more creative control than ever before and more than you’d ever get with your phone’s regular camera enabling the user to capture beautifully background defocussed shots. Everything’s easily accessible, with extra dedicated keys for fingertip control of zoom and shutter release on the camera body. The DSC-QX100 is also teamed with a wide-aperture Carl Zeiss Vario- Sonnar T lens with 3.6x optical zoom with Optical SteadyShot giving all the picture quality you’d expect from a premium pocket camera. For those, who might be new to the photographic world, or want something a little less complicated, then you can try the QX10. Cost wise, for QX10, you’re looking at around $299.00 and for the QX100, $599.00 (Sony’s current prices).

The QX100 is a smart, pocket size answer to getting high quality images. If you’re wanting to capture the perfect selfie, the delicious meal you’ve had or beautiful holiday snaps, the QX100 can allow you to do so with ease. I must admit, it does take a while to get around using the lens and then your smartphone as the viewfinder, but once mastered, you won’t ever look back. This video, gives you a sense of how you can actually use your QX100 out and about.

I am so excited to share with you more photos and videos, where I can now use my QX100. It going to make blogging so much more exciting and a little easier. I would love to know if anyone out there has the QX100, and how they are finding it, or if they have any tips or tricks? If you’re looking for a new camera, then I would strongly suggest the QX range. Snap happy and live a little!

I am super excited to announce that once again I am involved in The Annual Shine & Dine 2014, as their official red carpet presenter!Last year was truly a memorable evening. Hundreds of glamarous guests turned up to the very glitzy Doltone House to be treated to a beautiful three course meal, spectacular entertainment and an array of surprises, all whilst raising thousands of dollars, for Make-A-Wish Australia. Here are some snaps from last year:

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The Annual Shine & Dine team have made a conscious effort to make the event, bigger and better than last year. We’re aiming to raise $100,000 on the night, doubling our efforts from 2013. Happening on Friday 13th June, from 7.00pm. Guests will be treated to a night of luxury. Hosted by radio and television personality Sami Lukis. You’ll be treated to a red carpet entrance, entertainment from talent including Casey Burgess and Mis Joelle, a decedent three course meal, a range of drinks, silent and live auctions, a few suprises and the chance to win a stunning 2.03 carat ring from sponsors House of K’Dor. How? By purchasing a ‘Wishing Key’ for $100.00 on the night. If you’re the lucky owner of the key than can unlock the box, then you will be the proud owner of the beautiful ring!

Sami Lukis

Mis Joelle

Casey Burgess

Not only are you going to have a night to remember, every dollar raised on the night goes to Make-A-Wish Australia, a wonderful charity granting wishes and providing hope and joy to children and families who are need. You will also get to witness the efforts of Make-A-Wish Australia on the night. Six year old Brianna, pictured below has been diagnosed with lymphoblastic leukaemia. The beautiful Brianna and her family will be attending The Annual Shine & Dine this year and on this very special night, she will have her wish, of having a holiday on the Gold Coast to visit the theme parks, granted. It will certainly be a magical moment.

Beautiful Brianna.

I am truly blessed to be involved in such a wonderful cause, so please please please come along – I will be interviewing guests on the red carpet, so make sure you come and say hi! The perfect excuse for you to get glammed up and enjoy a wonderful night out, whilst changing peoples lives. Let’s make a difference together.

Somehow in the whirlwind of Christmas, the madness of the holiday period and end of year celebrations, we’ve made it to 2014! It certainly has come around so quickly, it’s already the 5th of Jan and up until now, haven’t had much of a chance to sit down and think about the new year and what 2014 is going to bring.

Are you a resolution maker? Or perhaps do you make a list of things you want to achieve in the next year? Or maybe, you just go with the flow and wait to see what happens? Either way, the beginning of the year always seems so exciting – a fresh start, a clean slate and opportunity to try things differently or make some big changes.

I am so excited for Live a Little this year – I have got some amazing surprises up my sleeve! Over the next couple of months, there will be two international reviews, some more beauty posts, a brand new hotspot that has recently opened up in Crows Nest and some kitty posts. I am also going to be encouraging my followers to interact with the blog a little more, share their thoughts and opinions and let me know what you want to know about. I can promise there are going to be some awesome freebies and giveaways too!

I thought I’d share some amazing images to get you inspired for the coming year.

Whatever your plans are for 2014, I hope its filled with adventure, courage and happiness. I encourage you all to be daring and perhaps each month throughout the year, try something new. Leo and I look forward to sharing with you all of our adventures. After all, everyone always deserves to live a little!

Just over a week ago I attended an all female sit down dinner at The Winery in Surry Hills, which was of a lets say.. an interesting nature. Kindly put on by pharmaceutical group Menarini Australia, the “Let’s Talk About Sex!” event covered all aspects of male and female sexual health, sexual psychology and relationships. I was incredibly excited to meet the guest speakers, sexual health physician, Dr Margaret Redelman and Dr Ginni Mansberg, who you would notably recognise on the hit TV Series, Embarrassing Bodies Down Under.

Dr Ginni Mansberg

Dr Margaret Redelman

Everything was open to discussion and we given the opportunity to ask questions in a judgemental free environment. Interestingly there still seems a huge stigma around ‘sex’ and interestingly ‘PE’ (Premature ejaculation..) in society, which can be seen in some of the facts and figures that were shared.

The Asia-Pacific Sexual Behaviours and Satisfaction Survey was conducted by Kantar Health and commissioned by Menarini in 2013:

Results revealed more than 50 per cent of Australian couples are dissatisfied.

Premature ejaculation is the most common male sexual dysfunction, affecting 32% of men in Australia and New Zealand.

It’s not surprising that 80% of respondents said that PE had a negative impact on their relationship, but 15% reported that it actually led to a relationship breakdown or divorce.

Physical satisfaction plays a big role in Australian bedrooms, with 74% of men and 72% of women stating that mutual physical satisfaction plays an extremely important role in a successful relationship.

I think what struck me the most, was the discussion around ‘relationships’. Both Dr Ginni and Dr Margaret made incredibly valuable points, which got me thinking about the whole concept of what is a ‘relationship’ in the 21st century. Now I am no Carrie Bradshaw, but I thought I’d share some of my observations and thoughts, based on what I learn at the “Let’s Talk About Sex!” event.

With the influx of technology, I have seen such a change in the way relationships are formed, sustained and maintained. We’ve seen a huge rise in online dating, which seems to be a booming business. We even have an online dating system that can ‘match you with compatible singles’. Now I don’t know if I really need a survey or an ‘online process of elimination’ to work out what sort of man is perfect for me. In a positive light, I suppose, it is giving people the opportunity to meet likeminded others in a non threatening environment, which leads to my next question, is it really that hard to meet people out and about? Can one strike up a conversation with a stranger on the train, at the gym, in a cafe or whilst you are walking the dog?

I would have to say it is proving to be quite difficult as a ‘Gen Y-er’. I will give you an example. I am out with my girlfriends on a Saturday night – strictly a ‘girls night’ (Note: all four of us are currently in a relationship). We’ve gone out for dinner, had a few drinks and decide to head out afterwards to have some cocktails and have a dance. After ordering drinks at the bar, we are approached by a group of guys who are celebrating their friends bucks evening. We are all happy to chat and have a laugh.. Right on cue, I would say 10 minutes into the conversation, we were propositioned about our relationship status. As soon as we mentioned that none of us were actually single, up they got and left, without a second thought. On the same evening, whilst we were having a dance, I would say that close to 12 different men approached us (a good majority, heavily intoxicated). As soon as we would explain that we were just enjoying a girls night, we were thrown a filthy look, with one even swearing at us and one particular fellow, who really didn’t get the message, insisted that he stays, actually cornering my friend. Now in my eyes, that is lack of respect. Not only was our evening interrupted, but we were also sworn at and insulted because we didn’t offer them the attention that they demanded.

Now I am fully aware that there are plenty of respectable men out there, with these only being a few bad apples, but it does seem like a reoccurring scenario. Many of my girlfriends have shared similar stories of being inappropriately propositioned. In defence of the men, there are plenty of women out there, that behave in the exact same manner. With many women happily and readily offering their attention too. Since we live in a society, where everything is so accessible, everything is on demand, perhaps that bit, where you have go through the ‘arduous-task-of-getting-to-know-someone’ chat, seems so unnecessary.

This leads to another issue that we discussed at the event was the rise of STIs in this country. In 2009, the total number of reported STIs in Australia was over 70,000 – including HIV the virus that can cause AIDS. The true number may be much higher, as many people who have had unprotected sex haven’t been tested for STIs. The most shocking part is that three quarters of reported STIs occur in people aged between 15 and 29 years. ‘Generation Y’ and the next generation, dubbed ‘Generation Z’ seem to be the most obtuse to the STI situation, with STI cases increasing yearly.

It seems that there is a growing lack of communication between us all. Sexual gratification and attention is expected instantly. We’re living in the fast paced, ‘now now now’ situation and I think everyone just needs to slow down a little bit. My message to the teens of today, should be relax, it’s not a race and your virtue should certainly not be handed to someone on a platter and treated as a competition.

So what if you’re not a teenager, what if you’re in a long term relationship like myself or even married? We’ve all the heard that sadly, 1 in 2 marriages are ending in divorce. This is such a frightening statistic. Money, work, stress, traffic, low self esteem, weight, children and lack of communication. These are regular blocks and some people might even call excuses, that can break down a relationship. How do you manage to keep the ‘spark’ alight? Dr Margaret explained that it’s incredibly important for couples, dating or married to make sure that they are maintaining their sensuality. Now, when I think of the word ‘sensuality’, I automatically think of something physical. But Dr Margaret explained it in a way that couples can find it together – and sometimes the answer is so obviously in front of you. An example she came up with was cooking and having dinner together at a table (Shock horror!) Yes, not in front of the TV on your knees, but at a table. Giving you a break from all things with a screen, creating a cozy and warm atmosphere for conversation and discussion, where you can solely focus on each other. Take an interest in your partner, ask questions, laugh, joke, sing and dance. Give your partner attention – don’t forget that kiss in the morning before you go to work. Call them rather than text. Remember the reason why you’re in a relationship in the first place.

I came across this video as it was ironically passed around the social media stratosphere, and I am sure once you watch this, many will feel a pang of guilt. Or on the other foot, you might even have experienced the rejection.

If you are lucky enough to be in a relationship, then cherish what you have. It is very important to have ‘alone’ time, to give you an opportunity to find out who you are as a person. But lets not allow technology and the fast-paced lifestyle that we are living in, destroy something as fundamental as as beautiful as sharing your life with someone.

And for those who are still looking for love, treat yourself with the respect you deserve, whether you’re male or female. Live a little, but don’t self yourself short and always keep a little bit of yourself a secret.

I hope that this has given you some food for thought. The “Lets Talk About Sex” event certainly got me thinking.

I am so pleased to announced that my blog, Live a Little have been nominated by pedestrian.tv in the Design, Media & Tech division in their annual Blogster Awards! I am so overwhelmed and it is such an honour to be considered.

I (and Leo of course) want to thank all the readers, supporters, friends and family who have been a part of the Live a Little journey so far. I love writing, presenting, photographing and creating interesting content that everyone can enjoy.

If you would like to support Live a Little a little more, all you need to do is head to my profile here, and just press the ‘like’ button! That’s it! The judging panel consists of Intel, pedestrian.tv and a major media sponsor for each category (Mine is Desktop Mag!). They judge each blog based on the following:

There is the potential to win the category or even be crowed the Intel Blogger of the Year! What ever happens, I am so pleased that I am finalist. I want to wish all the other bloggers the best of luck!

Many women are out there living busy lives – juggling families, partners, jobs, education, so sometimes, we can find ourselves stuck in ‘style rut’. What does one wear for work? If you’re in a corporate scenario, does that necessarily mean that you have to dress boring? How do you inject style into business? To find out, yesterday I headed down to the stunning Sir Stamford Hotel in Circular Quay, and joined a number of ladies for a fashion focused and elegant high-tea.

Hosted by the ever incredible celebrity stylist Kelly Smythe, hair guru Joh Bailey and makeup expert Raija from Napoleon Perdis, guests were treated to a fashion show showing some ways in which they can update their ‘corporate’ wardrobe from top to toe (hair and makeup too!). Kelly, and her assistant Akira took us through eight different looks on how to style high-end fashion for the office and whilst the fashion show was going on, Joh and Raija shared some of their industry tips when it comes to makeup and hair.

Napoleon galore backstage!

Backstage

Too many beautiful colours!

Last minute touch ups..

Kelly, Akira, Raija & Joh taking us through this look..

Giving us the tips and tricks!

The gorgeous models

The event oozed elegance and style. Set in the Elizabeth Room at the Sir Stamford Hotel, guests were treated to a delicious high tea. We feasted on sandwiches, beautiful canapes, dainty chocolates, macaroons and personalised cakes (high heels and handbags). I was suggested to try the Rose & Vanilla Dilmah tea, which was delicious and did have one (or two) glasses of Moet!

The Sir Stamford Hotel is beautiful. Standing proud on Macquarie Street, with the iconic Opera House in the background, it is the perfect setting to hold a high tea. Elegantly understated and dotted with beautiful antiques and furniture around the hotel, the Sir Stamford momentarily took me back in time. Famous for their high teas, you can spend the afternoon nibbling on cakes and sipping champagne in their beautiful bar, right in the heart of the city. I have been fortunate enough to stay in the Sir Stamford before and was blown away by their attention to detail, knowledgable staff and impeccable service.

It was a magical afternoon, learning some tips from some of the best in the industry. Kelly is an amazing stylist, full of so much knowledge. The high tea was delicious and complemented the fashion show beautifully.

Perhaps this has inspired you to update your look, trying something new or treat yourself to a high tea.. Go on spoil yourself and as always – live a little!

WELCOME TO LIVE A LITTLE.

Hello, my name is Sophie Crenigan. I hail originally from London UK, but now reside on the Central Coast of NSW, Australia. Aside from writing, I love all things beauty, lifestyle and homewares. I live for travel, having been bitten by the travel bug from a young age. I love exploring restaurants and do appreciate a vino or two. I adore animals, owning four gorgeous felines and deeply passionate about animal welfare and our planet. My mantra is to always have faith in yourself and those around you. So be a part of my journey, get inspired and always remember to live a little.